“A few of our favorite things” for foodies

HERE ARE “A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS” from food merchants in the Foothills:

Champagne and a cheese torte from BackPorch Market Champagne and French Triple Creme cheese are an indulgent pairing, and BackPorch carries a wide selection. Its new cheese torte, with homemade Boursin, sun-dried tomato pesto and basil pesto is sumptuous. It also carries gift-sized Italian panettone and panforte. Sea-salt caramels, along with chocolate-covered biscotti bites, are delicious sweet treats. 135 Colfax Ave., GV, 271-7111.

Gift baskets at Caroline’s Coffee Roasters This foothills gourmet coffee-maker has been making beautiful gift baskets for decades. Examples include a crate packed with Caroline’s coffee, a mug and chocolate-covered expresso beans; or a high-tea basket with scone mix, lemon curd, preserves, tea and shortbread. Baskets can be customized.
128 South Auburn St., GV, 800-600-6424, carolinescoffee.com

Artisan cheese at Dedrick’s Cheese Just about the widest selection of artisan, hand-made cheeses in the Foothills, including cow, goat, sheep and mixed milk from cheesemakers throughout the world. Its cheeses run the gamut from Appenzeller to Vella Jack (our personal favorite). For this season, consider an English Stilton or a fondue with “cave-aged” Emmental or gruyere. Also, an outrageous olive bar. 405 312 Main St., #105, Placerville, 344-8282. dedrickscheese.com

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar bar at Florio’s Fine Foods Olive oils are produced from varietals in Oroville and dispensed from authentic stainless-steel “fustis” to minimize oxidation. Choices include blood orange-flavored olive oil, and pear or fig balsamic vinegar. Customers can taste them all and enjoy a hands-on bottling experience. Bottles are free, refills are discounted.
123 Mill St., GV, 273-5940.

Exquisite bouquets at Foothill Flowers An institution since 1966, Foothill offers unique and elegant floral design and custom floral arrangements. Large selection of fresh flowers handpicked at the San Francisco Flower Mart. Its store is decked out with a real 26-foot Christmas tree, ornaments and lights. Owner Marie Johnson and her sons, Mark and Todd, are veterans who are focused on their customers. 102 W. Main St., GV, 273-2296. foothillflowers.com

Cornish pasties from Marshall’s Pasties Fresh, home-made pasties in the Cornish tradition, with meat, chicken or veggies. The area’s mining past included Cornish miner migrants (Cousin Jacks) who made them. 203 Mill St., GV, 272-2844.

Homemade bread pudding at Summer Thyme’s Apples in a delectable bread pudding with hard cider sauce. Starting with tender croissants, cream and fresh eggs, this bread pudding is special. Chopped organic local apples, raisins and cinnamon are folded in, then topped with hard cider sauce for an extra bite of flavor. The pear-ginger pudding joins the flavors of ginger and fresh pears, with a maple-bourbon sauce. 421 Colfax Ave., GV, 273-2904. summerthymes.com